Member used for photographic sensitive material

ABSTRACT

A member used for a photographic sensitive material that is formed from a degradable polymer having a water absorption of 8% or less and a flexural modulus of 1,000 kg/cm 2  or more. The member exhibits satisfactory performance as a formed member used for a photographic sensitive material, has no adverse effects on a photographic sensitive material, does not hurt an incinerator upon incineration for scrapping it, and, in the nature, is decomposed or decreased in strength by microbes, light or heat and hence is free from the danger of causing environmental problems.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a member used for photographicsensitive material. More particularly, the present invention relates toa member used for a photographic sensitive material that hassatisfactory performance for use as an injection molding member used fora photographic sensitive material, gives no adverse effects on aphotographic sensitive material, does not hurt an incinerator forscrapping it, and in the natural world, is decomposed or reduced instrength by microbes, light or heat and hence is free of the danger ofcausing environmental problems.

BACKGROUND ART

Heretofore, a member used for a photographic sensitive material, forexample, a container used for an instant film (of a mono-sheet type or apeel apart type) (for example, INSTAX Mini, ACE etc., trade names), aplastic cartridge, APS cartridge, a light shielded container used forpacking in illuminated room, a film unit with a lens (a wrapping memberused for “UTSURUNNDESU”, trade name), spools, plastic cases (P cases)and so forth are injection molded from various synthetic polymers suchas polyethylene resins, polypropylene resins, polystyrene resins and soforth in order to secure physical strength and also securemoisture-proof property and light shielding properties.

Further, a container used for a photographic sensitive material, a kindof the member used for a photographic sensitive material, particularly acap of container used for a photographic sensitive material hascapabilities of engaging with the body of a container, preventing thepermeation of moisture, and maintaining a long shelf life as a part ofthe functions. Conventionally, a cap of container used for aphotographic sensitive material has been produced from syntheticpolymers such as low density polyethylene resins as a main material sothat they can give no adverse effects on the photographic sensitivematerial and secure physical strength and moisture-proof property andlight shielding properties.

These synthetic polymers are very excellent materials from theviewpoints of stability against light, heat, various chemicals andmicrobes, giving no adverse effects on the quality of photographicsensitive materials and maintaining the quality of photographicsensitive materials for a long time.

In recent years, rapid popularization of instant films and an increasein use amount of photographic sensitive materials has led to anincreased demand for an injection molded member used for a photographicsensitive material having no or less adverse effects on the environment.In particular, a film with a lens (for example, “Utsurundesu,” tradename) is increasingly recovered, reused and recycled. However, 100%recovery is difficult in the case where it is used, for example,overseas.

Further, a cap of container used for a photographic sensitive materialhas been disposed of mainly by incineration or land reclamation althoughit has been sometimes recovered and reused after use. However, recently,an increasing attention has been paid to the issue of environmentalprotection and accordingly it has been demanded that a container usedfor a photographic sensitive material must give no or less adverseeffects on the environment.

However, a member used for a photographic sensitive material made of aconventional synthetic polymer such as polyethylene, low densitypolyethylene, polystyrene, or polypropylene produces a lot of heat uponburning, so that their incineration in large amounts gives adverseeffects on the durability of the incinerator. On the other hand, in thecase where it is disposed of by land reclamation, it is stable not onlyto light, heat, and various chemicals but also to microbes and hencethey will not be decomposed and putrefied, thus causing environmentalproblems.

JP 2731972B proposed the use of synthetic resin compositions that havebiodegradability and/or photodegradability and generate no substanceharmful to photographic sensitive materials as a wrapping material usedfor a photographic sensitive material. The degradable polymers disclosedin the publication contain an ester group, an alcohol group, an ethergroup, an amide group, a urethane bond, an imido bond and so forth.Because the polymers contain a large amount of oxygen in the molecule,they have lower combustion caloric than that of synthetic polymers suchas polyethylene, polystyrene and polypropylene.

However, since the degradable polymers themselves disclosed in thepublication have the above-described molecule structure, they havehigher water absorption rate than that of low-density polyethylene;therefore, they can readily permeate moisture. Further, when aphotographic sensitive material is contained in a member that hasabsorbed water, the member supplies water to the photographic sensitivematerial so that it is feared that the function of moisture-proofingproperty required for a member used for a photographic sensitivematerial will not be achieved.

It is known that moisture will deteriorate the performance of aphotographic sensitive material. Therefore, a member used for aphotographic sensitive material, for example, the body of a containerused for a photographic sensitive material is made of high densitypolyethylene, and a case used for an instant film and a body of caseused for a film with a lens are made of polystyrene, respectively. Thewater absorption rate of these materials are on the order of about 0.01%and at most on the order of 0.1% so that they are materials verydifficult to absorb water. On the other hand, the degradable polymersmostly are highly water absorbing and it has not been elucidated yet asto what a degree of water absorption rate the material should have inorder for it to be applied to a member used for a photographic sensitivematerial.

Furthermore, the container member used for an instant film, a film unitwith a lens and so forth contain a film in a synthetic resin-made case,which is further wrapped with a moisture preventing bag. As a result,the case is wrapped in a state where the resin per se constituting thecase has absorbed water. Accordingly, when the wrapping bag is left tostand at high temperatures, the humidity inside it increases so thatthere is the possibility that adverse effects will be posed on thephotographic sensitive material contained therein. This problem, whichis not encountered with in the case of a conventional member made of aresin having low water absorption, such as polyethylene, is associatedwith the use of a degradable polymer.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, a primary object of the present invention is to provide amember used for a photographic sensitive material that exhibitsnecessary performance required for a member used for a photographicsensitive material and that does not hurt an incinerator uponincineration for scrapping it and is decomposed or reduced in strengthby microbes, light or heat and hence is free from the danger of causingenvironmental problems.

Further, a secondary object of the present invention is to provide amember used for a photographic sensitive material, in particular a capof a container used for a photographic sensitive material that similarlyto the above does not hurt an incinerator upon incineration forscrapping it and is free of the danger of causing environmental problemsand that gives no adverse effects on the photographic sensitive materialin respect of engagement strength and moisture-proof property andachieves necessary performance.

To achieve the primary object above, the present invention provides amember used for a photographic sensitive material molded from adegradable polymer having a water absorption of 6% or less and aflexural modulus of 1,000 kgf/cm² or more. Use of a degradable polymerhaving a flexural modulus of 8,000 kgf/cm² or more is particularlypreferable.

Further, to achieve the secondary object above, the present inventionprovides a container used for a photographic sensitive material, inparticular a cap of a container used for a photographic sensitivematerial, molded from a degradable polymer having a water absorption of6% or less and a flexural modulus of 1,000 to 6,000 kgf/cm².

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the structure of a cap ofa container used for a photographic sensitive material molded accordingto an example of the present invention or comparative example and a bodyof the container. In the drawing, the reference numerals designate thefollowing parts.

1 Cap of a container used for a photographic sensitive material

2 Recess

3 Gate portion

4 Body of a container

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

In the present invention, the term “member used for a photographicsensitive material” means a member that houses a photographic sensitivematerial therein and has necessary moisture-proof property andoptionally light shielding property as necessary as well as physicalstrength and dimension precision in order to achieve the function ofpreserving the quality and performance of the photographic sensitivematerial for a long time. For example, such a member includes acontainer used for photographic material (including a cap of a containerused for a photographic sensitive material), a member used for aninstant film container (INSTAX mini, ACE etc., trade names), a plasticcartridge, an APS cartridge, a light shielded container for packing inilluminated room, a film unit with a lens (wrapping member used for“UTSURUNDESU”, trade name), a spool, a plastic case (P case), a core forwinding therearound a photosensitive material for printing, a magazineused for a photosensitive material and so forth.

Hereinafter, the member used for a photographic sensitive material(hereinafter referred to as “inventive member”) will be explained indetail.

The inventive member comprises a degradable polymer as a main component.The degradable polymer is a polymer that has the property of beingdecomposed by microbes, light or heat when it is discarded into thenatural world and includes biodegradable polymers, light/heat degradablepolymers and those polymers having both biodegradability and light/heatdegradability concurrently.

The term “biodegradable polymer” means a polymer that after use isdecomposed to a low molecular weight compound or compounds by the actionof microbes existing in the nature and finally decomposed to inorganicsubstances such as water and carbon dioxide. The biodegradable polymeris a resin that shows a degree of biodegradability of 60% or moreaccording to the method prescribed by ISO 14851, ISO 14852, ISO 14855 orthe like. For example, in the growth tests of microbes according to ASTMG21-70, comparative experiments using polystyrene resins andpolyethylene resins show degrees of growth of microbes of levels 1 and2. In contrast, the biodegradable polymer shows higher levels of degreeof growth such as level 3 or level 4. Further, the biodegradable polymeris a polymer that shows positive results on the degree of easybiodegradation by the modified MITI Tests (I) of OECD Test Guideline301C and shows further positive results on the intrinsicbiodegradability by the modified MITI test (II) of OECD Test Guideline301C.

The biodegradable polymers are roughly divided into the followinggroups.

(1) Microbe-produced Polymer

(a) Polyhydroxybutyrate/valerate (for example, BIOPOL, manufactured byMonsanto),

(b) Poly-β-hydroxybutyric acid (for example, BIOGREEN, manufactured byMitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc.)

(2) Synthetic Polymer

(a) Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) (for example, POVAL, manufactured by KurarayCo., Ltd.)

(b) Polylactic acid (for example, LACTY, manufactured by ShimadzuCorporation; LACIA, manufactured by Mitsui Chemical Inc.; ECOPLAY,manufactured by Cargyl Dow)

(c) Polyalkyl succinate

(d) Polycaprolactone (PCL) (for example, CELL GREEN P-H, manufactured byDaicel Chemical Industries, Ltd.)

(e) Polyester carbonate

(f) Polyamino acid (for example, ε-polylysine, γ-polyglutamic acid,poly-γ-methyl-L-glutamate, etc.)

(g) Polyester amide

(3) Natural Substance Based Polymer

(a) Cellulose acetate (for example, CELL GREEN P-CA, manufactured byDaicel Chemical Industries, Ltd.)

(b) Starch+PCL (for example, Mater-Bi, manufactured by Nippon SyntheticChemicals Industry Co., Ltd.; NOVON, manufactured by Chisso Corporation)

(c) Modified starch powder (for example, EVERCORN, manufactured by JapanCornstarch Co., Ltd.)

(d) Chitosan (for example, DOLON, manufactured by Aisero Kagaku)

(4) Others (Polysaccharides)

Bacteriocellulose

Dextran

Pullulan

Kardoran

Xanthan gum

Duran gum

The light/heat degradable polymer includes the following ones:

(a) Starch powder+catalyst: a polymer having compounded therein starchwhose surface was treated with a silane coupling agent, unsaturatedfatty acid, and organic metal (for example, DEGRA NOVON, manufactured byNovon Japan Co., Ltd.)

(b) Copolymer of a vinyl ketone compound with polyethylene,polypropylene or polystyrene

(c) Ethylene/CO/VAC ternary copolymer

(d) Copolymer of ethylene and carbon monoxide

In the present invention, the degradable polymer may be theabove-mentioned biodegradable polymer or light/heat degradable polymerused alone or a combination of the degradable polymer and light/heatdegradable polymer. These polymers may be used alone or one or more ofthem may be used in combination.

Further, in the present invention, a combination of a degradable polymerand a non-degradable polymer to provide necessary degradability may beused. The degradable polymer that can be used in the present inventionmay also include, for example, those obtained by adding amicrobe-degradable plasticizer such as a straight chain aliphatichydrocarbon (for example, straight chain aliphatic hydrocarbon having 8to 32 carbon atoms), or an aliphatic polyester (for example,polycaprolactone, polyglycolic acid, polyuric acid, or derivativesthereof such as esters thereof) to a non-degradable polymer or a mixtureof a non-degradable polymer with a degradable polymer to impartdegradability.

Furthermore, a stimulant for microbial degradation may be used. Thestimulant for microbial degradation includes master batches obtained byblending cornstarch, potato starch, rice starch, or modified starchesderived therefrom, in polymers in high concentrations.

It is known that generally a photographic sensitive material will havedecreased performance due to temperature and moisture. For this reason,the film is protected in a packaging container having a moisture-prooffunction. Thus, the container must have a water absorption of 5 mg orless after 24 hours' retention of it under the conditions where 4 g ofcalcium chloride, which is water absorbing, is introduced in the body ofa container used for a photographic film cartridge and left to stand ata temperature of 40° C. and at a humidity of 90%. To meet with thisrequirement, the degradable polymer used as a main material of theinventive member has a water absorption of 6% or less, preferably 1% orless from the viewpoint of retaining airtightness of the container usedfor a photographic sensitive material and maintaining the quality of thephotographic sensitive material. This feature is important particularlyfor the cap of a container. In the present invention, the waterabsorption is measured according to the A method prescribed inJIS-K7209.

Further, the degradable polymer used in the present invention has aflexural modulus of 1,000 kgf/cm² or more. The flexural modulus isselected from proper ranges depending on various functions (for example,rigidity in the case of a container), or characteristics and so forthrequired for a member used for a photographic sensitive material. Inparticular, for the cap of a container used for a photographic sensitivematerial, the degradable polymer having a flexural modulus in the rangeof between 1,000 and 6,000 kgf/cm² is used in order to obtain therequired engagement strength and easiness to open. One having a flexuralmodulus in the range of between 2,000 and 4,500 kgf/cm² is particularlypreferred from the viewpoints of engagement strength and of easiness toopen. If the flexural modulus is outside the range of between 1,000 and6,000 kgf/cm², the engagement strength is outside the range of between0.5 and 2.5 kg at ambient temperature (20 to 25° C.). If the engagementstrength of the cap with the container is less than 0.5 kg, the cap willcome out of engagement with the container when the container is dropped.On the other hand, if the engagement strength of the cap with thecontainer is greater than 2.5 kg, the cap will be difficult to open atlow temperatures. In the case of the body of a container used for aphotographic film cartridge, a degradable polymer having a flexuralmodulus of 6,000 kgf/cm² or more is used in order to obtain engagementstrength with the cap of a container used for the photographic filmcartridge and easiness to open the cap of the photographic filmcartridge container. In the case where deformation is concerned aboutdepending on the shape of the member, the degradable polymer having aflexural modulus of 8,000 kgf/cm² or more is preferable and that havinga flexural modulus in the range of 9,500 to 42,000 kgf/cm² isparticularly preferable. If the flexural modulus is outside the range ofbetween 8,000 and 42,000 kgf/cm², the engagement strength with the capof the container is outside the range of between 0.5 and 2.5 kg atambient temperature (20 to 25° C.). If the engagement strength with thecap of the container is less than 0.5 kg, the cap will come out ofengagement with the container when the container is dropped. On theother hand, if the engagement strength is greater than 2.5 kg, the capwill be very difficult to open at low temperatures. When molding a spoolused for a photographic film from a molding material having a flexuralmodulus of 8,000 kgf/cm² or less, a rib formed at a predeterminedposition of the spool in order to hold the photographic film at astopper prong is deformed by the photographic film to be loaded. As aresult, there is the fear that troubles may occur such that it isimpossible to load the film or wind it along its whole length or if thewinding is possible, the wound film is not taken out again.

Further, the degradable polymer used in the present invention desirablyhas a notched Izod impact strength at 23° C. of 0.8 kg.cm/cm or more. Ifthe notched Izod impact strength at 23° C. of the degradable polymer isless than 0.8 kg.cm/cm, breaking or cracking tends to occur more oftendue to falling of products or shock during processing or wrappingprocess or in the course of transportation of products so that theairtightness or function of the container cannot be secured and adecrease in the quality of photographic sensitive materials is feared.

It is desirable that the degradable polymer used in the presentinvention has a Vicat softening point of 50° C. or more. If the Vicatsoftening point is less than 50° C., the inventive member might bevulnerable to thermal deformation to fail to achieve its function ofproviding airtightness and moisture proof property when it is left onthe bonnet or seat of an automobile that is directly exposed to sunlightin summer seasons or when it is used in the severest environment in theworld such as in tropical countries and deserts.

The degradable polymer used in the present invention may optionallycontain various additives such as a colorant, an antistatic agent, anantioxidant, a lubricant, an ultraviolet absorbent, a crystal nucleatingagent, a reinforcement, a filler and so forth as far as they do notdeteriorate the advantageous effects of the present invention.

The colorant that can be used includes the followings.

Carbon blacks (gas furnace black, oil furnace black, channel black,anthracene black, acetylene black, Ketchen carbon black,electroconductive carbon black, thermal black, lamp black, oil smokeblack, animal black, vegetable black etc.)

Oxides: silica, diatomaceous earth, alumina, titanium oxide, iron oxide,zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, antimony oxide, barium ferrite, strontiumferrite, beryllium oxide, pumice stone, pumice stone balloon, aluminafiber, etc.

Hydroxides: aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, basic magnesiumcarbonate, etc.

Carbonates: calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, dolomite, dawsonite,etc.

Sulfuric (sulfurous) acid salts: calcium sulfate, barium sulfate,ammonium sulfate, calcium sulfite, etc.

Silicates: talc, clay, mica, asbestos, glass fiber, glass balloon, glassbead, calcium silicate, montmorillonite, bentonite, etc.

Carbon: graphite, carbon fiber, carbon hollow spheres, etc.

Others: iron powder, copper powder, lead powder, tin powder, stainlesssteel powder, pearlescent pigment, aluminum powder, molybdenum sulfide,boron fiber, silicon carbide fiber, brass fiber, calcium titanate, leadtitanate zirconate, zinc borate, barium metaborate, calcium borate,sodium borate, aluminum paste, etc.

Organic Compounds:

Wood meal (pine, oak, sawdust, etc.), husk fiber (almond, peanut, ricehull, etc.), cotton, jute, paper strips, cellophane pieces, nylon fiber,polypropylene fiber, starch, aromatic polyamide fiber, pulverized paper,cotton linter, etc.

Among these colorants, carbon black, titanium oxide, light reflectingaluminum powder, and aluminum paste are preferred since they areexcellent in heat resistance and light resistance and are relativelyinactive substances.

The addition amount of the colorant is preferably 0.1 to 1% by weight.

The colorants are selected depending on the color needed or the purposeof light shielding. For example, in the case of a container or a cap ofa container used for housing a photographic sensitive material thatparticularly requires light shielding property, such as a high-speedfilm, a special-purpose film (e.g., X-ray film), it is desirable to usea colorant having excellent light shielding property such as carbonblack, titanium oxide, or the like.

Further, in the case where discrimination is to be effected by coloringcontainers depending on the brand, grade or the like of the photographicsensitive materials to be housed therein, corresponding colors may beoptionally selected.

When the colorant is added to the member used for a photographicsensitive material, it is added in an amount of preferably 0.1 to 10% byweight.

The antistatic agents are roughly grouped into an internal antistaticagent and an external antistatic agent.

Specific examples of the internal antistatic agent includes nonionicantistatic agents such as higher alcohol ethylene oxide adducts,alkylphenol ethylene oxide adducts, esters (for example, esters ofhigher fatty acids and polyhydric alcohols, polyethylene glycol estersof higher fatty acids, and so forth), polyethers, and amides (forexample, higher fatty acid amides, dialkylamides, higher fatty acidamide ethylene oxide adducts, and so forth).

Examples of internal anionic antistatic agent includes alkylarylsulfonicacids, adipic acid, glutamic acid, alkylsulfonic acid salts, alkylsulfate, polyoxyethylene alkyl phosphate, fatty acid salts,alkylbenzenesulfonic acid salts, alkylnaphthalenesulfonic acid salts,and sodium dialkylsulfone succinate.

Examples of internal cationic antistatic agent includes amines (forexample, alkylamine phosphates, Schiff's salts, amide amines,polyethyleneimines, complexes of amide amines and metal salts, alkylester of amino acids, and so forth), imidazolines, amine ethylene oxideadducts, quaternary ammonium salts, and so forth.

Examples of internal amphoteric antistatic agent includesN-acylsarcosinates, aminocarboxylic acid derivatives, alanine type metalsalts, imidazoline type metal salts, carboxylic acid type metal salts,dicarboxylic acid type metal salts, diamine type metal salts, metalsalts having an ethylene oxide group, and so forth.

Further, the internal antistatic agent includes inorganic electrolytes,metal powders, metal oxides, kaolin, silicic acid salts, carbon powder,carbon fiber, and so forth.

External antistatic agent includes nonionic antistatic agents such aspolyhydric alcohols (for example, glycerine, sorbite, polyethyleneglycol, polyethylene oxide, etc.), polyhydric alcohol esters, higheralcohol ethylene oxide adducts, alkylphenol ethylene oxide adducts,amides, amide ethylene oxide adducts, and so forth. Further, externalamphoteric antistatic agent includes carboxylic acids (for example,alkylalanine, etc.), sulfonic acids, and so forth.

External anionic antistatic agent includes carboxylic acids, sulfuricacid derivatives (for example, alkylsulfonic acid salts, etc.),phosphoric acid derivatives (for example, phosphonic acid, phosphoricacid esters, etc.), polyester derivatives, and so forth.

External cationic antistatic agent includes amines (for example,alkylamines, amide amines, ester amines, etc.), vinyl-nitrogenderivatives, quaternary ammonium salts (for example, ammonium saltscontaining amide groups, ammonium salts containing ethylene oxide,etc.), acrylic acid ester derivatives, acrylic acid amide derivatives,vinyl ether derivatives, and so forth.

These antistatic agents are added in a ratio of preferably 0.01 to 5.0%by weight.

The antioxidant includes the following substances.

Phenol based antioxidants:

n-octadecyl-3-(3′,5′-di-t-butyl-4′-hydroxyphenyl)propionate

2,6-di-t-butyl-4-methylphenol

2,2′-methylenebis(4-methyl-6-t-butylphenol)

4,4′-thiobis(3-methyl-6-t-butylphenol)

4,4′-butylidenebis(3-methyl-6-t-butylphenol)

stearyl-β-(3-5-di-4-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate

1,1,3-tris(2-methyl-4-hydroxy-5-t-butylphenyl)butane

1,3,5-trimethyl-2,4,6-tris(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl)benzene

tetrakis[methylene-3-(3′,5′-di-t-butyl-4′-hydroxyphenyl)propionate]methane,and so forth.

Sulfur based antioxidants:

dilauryl 3,3′-thiodipropionate

dimyristyl-3,3′-thiodipropionate

lauryl stearyl thiodipropionate

distearyl-3,3′-thiodipropionate

ditridecyl-3,3′-thiodipropionate, and so forth

Phosphorus based antioxidants:

trinonyl phenyl phosphite

triphenyl phosphite

tris(2,4-di-t-butylphenyl)phosphite

distearyl pentaerythritol diphosphite, and so forth.

These antioxidants are added in a proportion of preferably 0.005 to 2%by weight in order for them to be effective for continuous molding athigh efficiencies.

To shorten the molding cycle and prevent the scraping of molded articlesduring processing process or transportation, the use of lubricants iseffective. The lubricants that can be used in the present inventioninclude the following substances.

Silicone based lubricants:

dimethylpolysiloxane, carboxyl-modified silicone oil (commerciallyavailable from Shin-Etsu Silicone Co., Ltd., Toray Silicone Co., Ltd.,etc.) Oleic acid amide based lubricants:

ARMO SLIP-CP (trade name, manufactured by Lion Akzo Co., Ltd.), NEWTRON(trade name, manufactured by Nippon Seika), NEWTRON E-18 (trade name,manufactured by Nippon Seika Kogyo), AMIDE-O (trade name, manufacturedby Nitto Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.), ALFLOW E-10 (trade name,manufactured by Nippon Oil and Fats Co., Ltd.), DIAMID O-200 (tradename, manufactured by Nippon Kasei Chemical Co., Ltd.), etc.

Erucic acid amide lubricants:

ALFLOW P-10 (trade name, manufactured by Nippon Kasei Chemical Co.,Ltd.), NEWTRON S (trade name, manufactured by Nippon Seika), etc.

Stearic acid amide lubricants:

ALFLOW S-10 (trade name, manufactured by Nippon Oil and Fats Co., Ltd.),NEWTRON 2 (trade name, manufactured by Nippon Seika Kogyo), and DIAMID200 (trade name, manufactured by Nippon Kasei), etc.

Bis fatty acid amide lubricants:

BISAMIDE (trade name, manufactured by Nippon Kasei), DIAMID 200 BIS(trade name, manufactured by Nippon Kasei), and ARMO WAX-EBS (tradename, manufactured by Lion Akzo Co., Ltd.), etc.

Alkylamine based lubricants:

ELECTROSTRIPPER TS-2 (trade names, manufactured by Kao Corporation),etc.

Hydrocarbon lubricants:

Liquid paraffin, natural paraffin, micro wax, synthetic paraffin,polyethylene wax, polypropylene wax, chlorinated hydrocarbon, andfluorocarbon.

Fatty acid lubricants:

Higher fatty acids (whose preferable number of carbon atoms is C₁₂ ormore), and oxy fatty acid.

Ester lubricants:

Lower alcohol esters of fatty acids, polyvalent alcohol esters of fattyacids, polyglycol esters of fatty acids, and fatty alcohol esters offatty acids.

Alcohol lubricants:

Polyvalent alcohol, polyglycol, and polyglycerol.

Metallic soaps:

Compounds of higher fatty acids, such as lauric acid, stearic acid,ricinoleic acid, naphthenic acid and oleic acid, and metals, such as Li,Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Zn, Cd, Al, Sn, and Pb.

Among these lubricants, oleic acid amide lubricants is preferred when itis in use for preparing a cap of a container used for a photographicsensitive material.

The lubricant is added in an amount in the range of preferably 0.005 to2% by weight.

As the ultraviolet absorbent, benzophenone based, benzotriazole based,salicylate based, oxazolic acid based, Ni based, hindered amine basedones are preferred.

Crystal nucleating agents are roughly classified into an organicnucleating agent and an inorganic nucleating agent.

The organic nucleating agent includes di-(p-methylbenzylidene)sorbitol,di-(2,4-dimethylbenzylidene)sorbitol,di-(2,4-diethylbenzylidene)sorbitol,di-(1,3,5-trimethylbenzylidene)sorbitol,di-(pentamethylbenzylidene)sorbitol,1,3,2,4-di(methylbenzylidene)sorbitol,1,3-p-ethylbenzylidene-2,4-p-methylbenzylidene sorbitol,1,3-p-methylbenzylidene-2,4-p-ethylbenzylidene sorbitol,1,3-p-methylbenzylidene-2,4-p-chlorobenzylidene sorbitol,1,3-p-chlorobenzylidene-2,4-p-methylbenzylidene sorbitol,1,3-p-methylbenzylidene-2,4-p-isopropylbenzylidene sorbitol,1,3-p-isopropylbenzylidene-2,4-p-methylbenzylidene sorbitol,1,3-p-ethylbenzylidene-2,4-p-isopropylbenzylidene sorbitol,1,3-p-chlorobenzylidene-2,4-p-isopropylbenzylidene sorbitol,1,3,2,4-di-(ethylbenzylidene)sorbitol,1,3,2,4-di-(propylbenzylidene)sorbitol, 1, 3,2,4-di-(methoxybenzylidene)sorbitol,1,3,2,4-di-(ethoxybenzylidene)sorbitol,1,3,2,4-di-(p-methylbenzylidene)sorbitol,1,3,2,4-di-(p-chlorobenzylidene)sorbitol,1,3,2,4-di-(p-methoxybenzylidene)sorbitol,1,3,2,4-di-(alkylbenzylidene)sorbitol, and so forth. In particular,dibenzylidene sorbitol compounds are preferred.

The inorganic nucleating agents includes alkali metal hydroxides such aslithium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, and potassium hydroxide, alkalimetal oxides such as sodium oxide, alkali metal carbonates such aslithium carbonate, sodium carbonate, potassium carbonate, sodiumhydrogen carbonate, and potassium hydrogen carbonate, alkaline earthmetal hydroxides such as calcium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, andbarium hydroxide, alkaline earth metal oxides such as calcium carbonateand calcium oxide, and so forth.

Among these nucleating agents, organic nucleating agents, in particulardibenzylidene sorbitol compounds, are preferable because they canimprove transparency, physical strength and rigidity of the member usedfor a photographic sensitive material.

In the present invention, when a nucleating agent is used, its additionamount is in the range of preferably 0.01 to 1.0% by weight.

Further, in order to increase the heat resistance, rigidity and dropimpact strength and to decrease the degree of shrinkage and the changein dimension due to water absorption, the following reinforcements orfillers may be added in the range where the advantageous effects of thepresent invention are not deteriorated:

Amorphous filler: ground limestone, precipitated calcium carbonate,natural silica, synthetic silica, kaolin, clay, titanium oxide, bariumsulfate, zinc oxide, aluminum hydroxide, alumina, and magnesiumhydroxide.

Plate-like filler: talc, mica, glass flakes, synthetic hydrotalcite.

Needle-like filler: wallastonite, potassium titanate, basic magnesiumsulfate (moth Heidi), sepiolite, zonotolite, aluminum borate.

Spherical filler: bead, balloon

With a view to imparting various functions, the following functionalfillers may be added. Functional fillers: metallic electroconductivefillers, non-metallic electroconductive fillers, carbon basedelectroconductive fillers, magnetic fillers, piezoelectric/pyroelectricfillers, sliding (lubricating/anti-abrasive) fillers, sealing fillers,ultraviolet absorbing fillers, damping fillers, anti-blocking fillers,flame retardants, and so forth.

Further, the fillers may be treated with a coupling agent, surfacetreating agent or the like in order to increase the dispersibilitytogether with the degradable polymer. The coupling agent or surfacetreating agent that can be used in the present invention includesvarious coupling agents and surface treating agents such as silanebased, titanate based, aluminate based, carboxylic acid based,phosphorus acid based, fatty acid based, oil and fats, nonionicsurfactants, waxes and so forth.

Further, glass fiber, paper (inclusive of salvage), cloth, pulp, woodmeal, sawdust, bean curd lees, as well as metal powders such as ironpowder may be used.

To accelerate the degradation of the degradable polymer, palm fruit huskfiber, paper (including salvage), cloth, pulp and so forth may beblended.

Further, when a degradable polymer having a high water absorption isused, a filler having a low water absorption, for example glass fiber,talc, clay, mica, metal powder or the like may be added to adjust thewater absorption.

Furthermore, the inventive member may optionally contain other resincomponents as well as the degradable polymer as necessary in order toincrease the moldability, moisture seal, rigidity and heat resistance.The other resin components may include, for example, ethylene/butene-1copolymer resins, propylene/butene-1 copolymer resins,ethylene/propylene/butene-1 copolymer resins, polybutene-1 resins,styrene resins, polymethyl methacrylate resins, styrene/acrylonitrilecopolymer resins, ABS resins, polypropylene resins, crystallinepropylene/α-olefin copolymer resins, modified polypropylene resins,modified polyethylene resins, polypropylene/maleic anhydride graftcopolymer resins, chlorinated polyolefin resins (mainly composed ofchlorinated polyethylene resins), ethylene based ionomer resins (metalcrosslinked ethylene/unsaturated acid copolymer resins),polymethylpentene resins, vinyl chloride/propylene copolymer resins,ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer resins, crosslinked polyethylene resins(electron-beam irradiation crosslinked, chemically crosslinked, etc.),polyisobutylene resins, ethylene/vinyl chloride copolymer resins,1,2-polybutadiene resins, L-LDPE resins, MDPE resins, EEA resins, EVAresins, propylene/ethylene copolymer resins and so forth.

In the present invention, the degradable polymers and various additivesas well as other resin components are selected such that they alone orcombinations thereof do not generate substances that give harmfuleffects on photographic sensitive materials or do not give adverseeffects on the photographic sensitive material. The substance that givesadverse effects on the photographic sensitive material includes, forexample, hydrogen cyanide, nitrile group-containing gases, hydrogensulfide and so forth. These substances are causes for fogging ordeterioration of the storage stability of the photographic sensitivematerial. In the present invention, the phraseology “generating nosubstance that gives harmful effects on a photographic sensitivematerial” means generating no substance that is harmful to aphotographic sensitive material in an amount of, for example, about 0.05μg or more per g of polymer in spite of the moisture conditioning withheating carried out at 40° C. and at 60% RH for 7 days.

Molding materials containing the degradable polymers and variousadditives as well as other resin components may be formulated byoptionally selecting combinations of components to be used, proportionsof components, and so forth depending on various characteristics ofmolded articles, melt viscosity, fludity or molding conditions requiredfor at the time of injection molding.

Upon manufacturing the inventive members, it is desirable to carry outinjection molding using a hot runner type mold because of releasing nowaste upon manufacture, which is advantageous for environmentalprotection.

The conditions of injection molding may be optionally selected dependingon the degradable polymer, additives, and other resin components to beused, the shape of the member, and so forth.

The shape of the inventive member may be optionally determined dependingon the photographic sensitive material to be housed or wrapped, andnecessary functions and is not particularly limited.

In the case where the inventive member is used in combination withanother member, it is preferred that another member is also constitutedby the above-mentioned degradable polymer in order to provide wrappingthat is friendly to the environment. For example, when the inventivemember is the body of a container used for a photographic film cartridgemade of a degradable polymer, a wrapping that is friendly to theenvironment can be provided by constructing the cap of the containerfrom a degradable polymer accordingly.

Further, the shape of the container used for a photographic sensitivematerial of the present invention is not particularly limited. Forexample, the shape of the cap of container is not particularly limitedas far as the cap in combination with the body of a container can housea container used for a photographic sensitive material. However, it isdesirable that the cap can exhibit sufficient sealed engagement togetherwith the body of a container and allows its easy attachment anddetachment to and from the body of a container.

EXAMPLES

Hereinafter, the present invention will be explained in concretely byexamples and comparative examples. However, the present invention shouldnot be construed as being limited thereto.

Example 1

Using cellulose acetate (CELL GREEN PCA00, manufactured by DaicelChemical Industries, Ltd.) as a molding material, a body of a containerused for a photographic film cartridge as disclosed in JP 11-38558 A, aninstant film pack (case body) as disclosed in JP 10-288810 A, and aspool used for a photographic film as disclosed in JP 6-266054 A weremolded on an injection molding machine (SG150, trade name, manufacturedby Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd.) under the conditions of the cylindertemperature and mold temperature shown in Table 1 and a clamp pressureof 150 t with a hot runner type mold having two cavities.

The water absorption, flexural modulus and impact strength of celluloseacetate used as the molding material were measured according to themethods set forth below. Further, the body of a container used for aphotographic film cartridge was subjected to measurements of moisturepermeability and engagement strength as well as to drop test accordingto the methods set forth below. Overall evaluation results are shown inTable 2. For the instant film pack, evaluation results of photographicproperties, of deformation upon molding and of drop test as well asoverall evaluation results are shown in Table 3. For the spool used fora photographic film, evaluation or measurements of photographicproperties and film loading capability as well as drop test wereperformed according to the method set forth below and overall evaluationwas performed. The results obtained are shown in Table 4.

Water Absorption

This was measured according to A method disclosed in the JIS K7209.

Moisture Permeability

After charging 4 g of calcium chloride in the body of a container usedfor a photographic film cartridge, the LDEP-made cap of a containerdisclosed in JP 11-38558 A was engaged to seal the container, which wasleft to stand for 24 hours in a thermo-hygrostat chamber conditioned at40° C. and at 90% RH. After the standing, an increase in weight due tomoisture absorption was measured using a precision weighing machine. Theincrease in weight was defined as moisture permeability.

Flexural Modulus

This was measured according to JIS K7203.

Engagement Strength

An LDPE-made cap of a container having the shape as disclosed in JP11-38558 A was engaged with the body of a container used for aphotographic film cartridge, and the cap of a container was attached toa jig, which in turn was attached to the tip of a spring balance. Thespring balance was lifted vertically to pull the cap of the container tomeasure a force necessary for disengaging the cap from the body of thecontainer. The force measured was defined as an index of engagementstrength.

In this measurement, an LDPE-made cap of a container was used. However,it is preferable to use a cap of a container made of a biodegradableresin because it is friendly to the environment.

Impact Strength

Notched impact strength was measured according to JIS K7110.

Photographic Properties

In a metal can having an inner volume of 700 ml were charged 120 g ofpellets of a molding material, an ISO 400 color negative film foradvanced photo system for 40 shots (NEXIA H, trade name, manufactured byFuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.) and an instant film (INSTAX Mini, trade name,manufactured by Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.). The metal can was sealed in50° C. and after 3 days, the contents were taken out. The films wereused for taking a picture and fog, sensitivity and maximum density weremeasured and compared with those obtained using an instant film typetreated in the same manner as above except that no pellet of a moldingmaterial was enclosed together with the film. Evaluation was madeaccording to the following criteria.

∘: The photographic properties of the sample were equivalent or superiorto those of the type.

×: The photographic properties of the sample were inferior to those ofthe type.

Capability of Loading Film to Spool

It was tried to load the above-mentioned color negative film foradvanced photo system in a film cartridge using a film loader(REATOUCHER AT100, trade name, manufactured by Fuji Photo Film Co. Ltd.)and whether or not loading of the film was possible. In the case wherethe film was successfully loaded, further tests were performed as towhether or not winding of the film along its whole length and whether ornot it was possible to successfully pull out along its whole length.Evaluation was made according to the following criteria.

∘: Loading of a film was possible and the winding and pulling out thefilm along its whole length was also possible.

×: Loading of a film was impossible, or loading of a film was possiblebut the winding of the film along its whole length was impossible.

Drop Test

Body of a Container Used for a Photographic Film Cartridge

A 36-shot film was charged in a container and the cap of a container wasfitted to the body of the container. Then, the body of the container wasdropped from a height of 1.5 m. Fifty (50) containers were tested inthis way and occurrences of breaking and cracking were examined.

∘: No breaking nor cracking.

×: Breaking, cracking, or disengagement of the cap occurred.

Body of Instant Film Pack

Fifty (50) packs each packed with 10 films were dropped from a height of1.5 m and occurrences of breaking and cracking were examined.

∘: No breaking nor cracking.

×: Breaking or cracking occurred.

Spool Used for a Photographic Film

A molded spool used for a photographic film was incorporated in acartridge and a 40-shot photographic film was wound around the spool toload the film. Fifty (50) cartridges thus obtained were dropped from aheight of 1.5 m. Examination was made as to whether or not it waspossible to repeat the pulling out and rewinding of the film along itswhole length 300 times for each cartridge. Evaluation was made accordingto the following criteria.

∘: After the dropping, it was possible to repeat the pulling out andrewinding of the film along its whole length 300 times

×: After the dropping, it was impossible to repeat the pulling out andrewinding of the film along its whole length 300 times.

Evaluation of Biodegradability

A specimen for tensile test was molded and the surface of the moldedarticle was observed. Then, this was buried in the soil of a gardenspot. After 118 days, the surface of the molded article was observed.Evaluation was made according to the following criteria.

∘: Cracks, drops or the like state was observed on the surface of themolded article.

×: No change was observed on the surface of the molded article.

Criteria of Overall Evaluation

Overall evaluation of the members used for a container used for aphotographic sensitive material on various properties was made based onthe criteria set forth below. The evaluation included moisturepermeability, engagement strength, photographic properties, presence orabsence of occurrence of deformation upon molding, drop test, test ofloading a film to a spool, and presence or absence of biodegradability(whether or not to cause environmental problems).

∘: Excellent as a member used for a container used for a photographicsensitive material.

X: Unsuitable as a member used for a container used for a photographicsensitive material.

Example 2

An instant film pack (case body) as disclosed in JP 10-288810 A, and aspool used for a photographic film as disclosed in JP 6-266054 A weremolded under the conditions of the cylinder temperature and moldtemperature shown in Table 1 and a clamp pressure of 150 t with a hotrunner type mold having two cavities in the same manner as in Example 1except that in place of the cellulose acetate as the molding material,use was made of a resin consisting of a mixture of 80% by weight of ahigh density polyethylene (IDEMITSU POLYETHYLENE 100J, trade name,manufactured by Idemitsu Petro-Chemical Co.) and 20% by weight of DEGRANOVON (1x1025), manufactured by Novon Japan Co., Ltd.

The water absorption, flexural modulus and impact strength were measuredaccording to the method as described above. Further, the body of acontainer used for a photographic film cartridge was subjected tomeasurements of moisture permeability and engagement strength as well asto drop test according to the methods as described above. Overallevaluation results are shown in Table 2. For the instant film pack,evaluation results of photographic properties, of deformation uponmolding and of drop test as well as overall evaluation results are shownin Table 3. For the spool used for a photographic film, evaluation ormeasurements of photographic properties and film loading capability aswell as drop test were performed according to the method as describedabove and overall evaluation was performed. The results obtained areshown in Table 4.

Example 3

An instant film pack (case body) as disclosed in JP 10-288810 A, and aspool used for a photographic film as disclosed in JP 6-266054 A weremolded with a hot runner type mold having two cavities in the samemanner as in Example 1 except that in place of the cellulose acetate asthe molding material use was made of polyhydroxybutyrate/valerate(BIOPOL D411G, manufactured by Nippon Monsanto Co., Ltd.) alone.

The water absorption, flexural modulus and impact strength were measuredaccording to the method as described above. Further, the body ofcontainer used for a photographic film cartridge was subjected tomeasurements of moisture permeability and engagement strength as well asto drop test according to the methods as described above. Overallevaluation results are shown in Table 2. For the instant film pack,evaluation results of photographic properties, of deformation uponmolding and of drop test as well as overall evaluation results are shownin Table 3. For the spool used for a photographic film, evaluation ormeasurements of photographic properties and film loading capability aswell as drop test were performed according to the method set forth belowand overall evaluation was performed. The results obtained are shown inTable 4.

Example 4

An instant film pack (case body) as disclosed in JP 10-288810 A, and aspool used for a photographic film as disclosed in JP 6-266054 A weremolded with a hot runner type mold having two cavities in the samemanner as in Example 1 except that in place of the cellulose acetate asthe molding material, use was made of polylactic acid (LACTY 9050,manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation) alone.

The water absorption, flexural modulus and impact strength were measuredaccording to the method as described above. Further, the body of acontainer used for a photographic film cartridge was subjected tomeasurements of moisture permeability and engagement strength as well asto drop test according to the methods as described above. Overallevaluation results are shown in Table 2. For the instant film pack,evaluation results of photographic properties, of deformation uponmolding and of drop test as well as overall evaluation results are shownin Table 3. For the spool used for a photographic film, evaluation ormeasurements of photographic properties and film loading capability aswell as drop test were performed according to the method as describedabove and overall evaluation was performed. The results obtained areshown in Table 4.

Comparative Example 1

An instant film pack (case body) as disclosed in JP 10-288810 A, and aspool used for a photographic film as disclosed in JP 6-266054 A weremolded with a hot runner type mold having two cavities in the samemanner as in Example 1 except that as the molding material, use was madeof a resin consisting of a mixture of 80% by weight of an amide basedelastomer (PAPEX 5512MN01) manufactured by Toray Industries, Inc. and20% by weight of DEGRA NOVON (1x1025), manufactured by Novon Japan Co.,Ltd.

The water absorption, flexural modulus and impact strength were measuredaccording to the method as described above. Further, the body of acontainer used for a photographic film cartridge was subjected tomeasurements of moisture permeability and engagement strength as well asto drop test according to the methods as described above. Overallevaluation results are shown in Table 2. For the instant film pack,evaluation results of photographic properties, of deformation uponmolding and of drop test as well as overall evaluation results are shownin Table 3. For the spool used for a photographic film, evaluation ormeasurements of photographic properties and film loading capability aswell as drop test were performed according to the method as describedabove and overall evaluation was performed. The results obtained areshown in Table 4.

Comparative Example 2

An instant film pack (case body) as disclosed in JP 10-288810 A, and aspool used for a photographic film as disclosed in JP 6-266054 A weremolded with a hot runner type mold having two cavities in the samemanner as in Example 1 except that as the molding material, use was madeof a resin consisting of a mixture of 80% by weight of a polystyrene(STYRON 679, manufactured by A & M Styrene Co., Ltd.) and 20% by weightof DEGRA NOVON (1x1025), manufactured by Novon Japan Co., Ltd.

The water absorption, flexural modulus and impact strength were measuredaccording to the method as described above. Further, the body of acontainer used for a photographic film cartridge was subjected tomeasurements of moisture permeability and engagement strength as well asto drop test according to the methods as described above. Overallevaluation results are shown in Table 2. For the instant film pack,evaluation results of photographic properties, of deformation uponmolding and of drop test as well as overall evaluation results are shownin Table 3. For the spool used for a photographic film, evaluation ormeasurements of photographic properties and film loading capability aswell as drop test were performed according to the method as describedabove and overall evaluation was performed. The results obtained areshown in Table 4.

Comparative Example 3

An instant film pack (case body) as disclosed in JP 10-288810 A, and aspool used for a photographic film as disclosed in JP 6-266054 A weremolded with a hot runner type mold having two cavities in the samemanner as in Example 1 except that as the molding material, use was madeof a resin consisting of a mixture of 80% by weight of a polyamide(DURETHANE BC303), manufactured by Bayer Aktiengesellschaft and 20% byweight of DEGRA NOVON (1x1025), manufactured by Novon Japan Co., Ltd.

The water absorption, flexural modulus and impact strength were measuredaccording to the method as described above. Further, the body of acontainer used for a photographic film cartridge was subjected tomeasurements of moisture permeability and engagement strength as well asto drop test according to the methods as described above. Overallevaluation results are shown in Table 2. For the instant film pack,evaluation results of photographic properties, of deformation uponmolding and of drop test as well as overall evaluation results are shownin Table 3. For the spool used for a photographic film, evaluation ormeasurements of photographic properties and film loading capability aswell as drop test were performed according to the method as describedabove and overall evaluation was performed. The results obtained areshown in Table 4.

TABLE 1 (Molding Conditions) Cylinder Mold Temperature Temperature (°C.) (° C.) Example 1 270 50 Example 2 200 40 Example 3 180 60 Example 4240 40 Comparative Example 1 230 40 Comparative Example 2 250 50Comparative Example 3 240 40

TABLE 2 (Body of Container used for Photographic Film Cartridge) WaterMoisture Flexural Engagement Impact Absorption Permeability ModulusStrength Strength Drop Bio- Overall (%) (mg/day) (kgf/cm²) (kg)(kgf/cm²) Test degradability Evaluation Example 1 5.08 4.8 12900 0.9 4.6o o o Example 2 0.05 3.5 8100 0.6 1.0 ∘ ∘ ∘ Example 3 0.22 3.1 8870 0.71.9 ∘ ∘ ∘ Example 4 0.35 2.6 26900 2.0 1.3 ∘ ∘ ∘ Comparative 6.21 6.42200 0.2 NB x x x Example 1 Comparative 0.03 2.0 32100 2.2 0.7 x x xExample 2 Comparative 7.01 6.6 16200 1.2 NB ∘ x x Example 3

TABLE 3 (Body of Instant Film Pack) Water Flexural Projection ImpactAbsorption Photographic Modulus of Molded Strength Bio- Overall (%)Properties (kgf/cm²) Article (kg/cm · cm) Drop Test degradabilityEvaluation Example 1 5.08 ∘ 12900 No 4.6 ∘ ∘ ∘ Example 2 0.05 ∘ 8100 No1.0 ∘ ∘ ∘ Example 3 0.22 ∘ 8870 No 1.9 ∘ ∘ ∘ Example 4 6.35 ∘ 26900 No1.3 ∘ ∘ ∘ Comparative 6.21 x 2200 Yes NB Impossible x x Example 1 totest* Comparative 0.03 ∘ 32100 No 0.7 x x x Example 2 Comparative 7.01 x16200 No NB ∘ x x Example 3 Note: *Impossible to test: Deformation ofthe molded article was too large to load the film and the test wasimpossible to perform.

TABLE 4 (Spool used for Photographic Film) Water Flexural Film ImpactAbsorption Photographic Modulus Loading Strength Bio- Overall (%)Properties (kgf/cm²) Capability (kg/cm · cm) Drop Test degradabilityEvaluation Example 1 5.08 ∘ 12900 ∘ 4.6 ∘ ∘ ∘ Example 2 0.05 ∘ 8100 ∘1.0 ∘ ∘ ∘ Example 3 0.22 ∘ 8870 ∘ 1.9 ∘ ∘ ∘ Example 4 0.35 ∘ 26900 ∘ 1.3∘ ∘ ∘ Cy omparative 6.21 x 2200 x NB Impossible x x Example 1 to test*Comparative 0.03 ∘ 32100 ∘ 0.7 x x x Example 2 Comparative 7.01 x 16200∘ NB ∘ x x Example 3 Note: *Impossible to test: The film could not beloaded and the test was impossible to perform.

Example 5

Using cellulose acetate (CELL GREEN PCA00, manufactured by DaicelChemical Industries, Ltd.) as a molding material, a cap of a containerused for a photographic sensitive material 1 as shown in FIG. 1 wasinjection molded on an injection molding machine (SG150, trade name,manufactured by Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd.) under the conditions ofthe cylinder temperature and mold temperature shown in Table 5 and aclamp pressure of 150 t with a hot runner type mold having 24 cavities.The cap of a container used for a photographic sensitive material 1shown in FIG. 1 has a construction such that it has a recess 2 on theupper surface thereof and the recess 2 is provided with a gate 3 moldedwith the hot runner type mold in the center thereof.

The water absorption and flexural modulus of cellulose acetate used asthe molding material were measured in the same manner as in Example 1.Further, the cap of a container used for a photographic sensitivematerial was subjected to measurements of moisture permeability andengagement strength according to the following methods. Overallevaluation results are shown in Table 6.

Moisture Permeability

After charging 4 g of calcium chloride in a body of a container 4 shownin FIG. 1, the cap of the container 1 was engaged to seal the container,which was left to stand for 24 hours in a thermo-hygrostat chamberconditioned at 40° C. and at 90% RH. After the standing, an increase inweight due to moisture absorption by calcium chloride was measured usinga precision weighing machine. The increase in weight was defined asmoisture permeability.

Engagement Strength

A part for clamping a cap of a container was attached to the tip of aspring balance and the cap of the container was clamped by the part.Then, the spring balance was lifted upright to pull the cap of thecontainer and a force necessary for disengaging the cap from the body ofthe container was measured. The measured force was defined as an indexof engagement strength.

Overall Evaluation

Evaluation was made of the properties of each material with reference tooptimum values of moisture permeability and engagement strength requiredof for a cap of a container used for a photographic sensitive materialand, in addition, the possibility of causing environmental problemsbased on the following criteria.

∘: Excellent as a cap of a container used for a photographic sensitivematerial.

Δ: Usable as a cap of a container used for a photographic sensitivematerial.

×: Unsuitable as a cap of a container used for a photographic sensitivematerial.

Example 6

A cap of a container used for a photographic sensitive material wasproduced in the same manner as in Example 5 except that polycaprolactone(CELL GREEN P-HB05 manufactured by Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd.) wasused as the molding material. The water absorption and flexural modulusof the molding material and the moisture permeation, engagement strengthand degradability of the obtained cap of a container were measured orevaluated according to the methods described above, and overallevaluation was made. The results obtained are shown in Table 6.

Example 7

A cap of a container used for a photographic sensitive material wasproduced in the same manner as in Example 1 except that a resinconsisting of a mixture of 80% by weight of a low density polyethylene(UBE POLYETHYLENE Z470, manufactured by Ube Industries, Ltd.) and 20% byweight of DEGRA NOVON (1X1025), manufactured by Novon Japan Co., Ltd.was used as the molding material. The water absorption and flexuralmodulus of the molding material and the moisture permeation, engagementstrength and degradability of the obtained cap of a container weremeasured or evaluated according to the methods described above, andoverall evaluation was made. The results obtained are shown in Table 6.

Example 8

A cap of a container used for a photographic sensitive material wasproduced in the same manner as in Example 5 except that a resinconsisting of a mixture of 80% by weight of a low-density polyethylene(UBE POLYETHYLENE J5019, manufactured by Ube Industries, Ltd.) and 20%by weight of DEGRA NOVON (1X1025), manufactured by Novon Japan Co., Ltd.was used as the molding material. The water absorption and flexuralmodulus of the molding material and the moisture permeation, engagementstrength and degradability of the obtained cap of a container weremeasured or evaluated according to the methods described above, andoverall evaluation was made. The results obtained are shown in Table 6.

Example 9

A cap of a container used for a photographic sensitive material wasproduced in the same manner as in Example 5 except that a resinconsisting of a mixture of 50% by weight of cellulose acetate (CELLGREEN PCA00, manufactured by Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and 50%by weight of an amide based elastomer (PAPEX 5512MN01) manufactured byToray Industries, Inc. was used as the molding material. The waterabsorption and flexural modulus of the molding material and the moisturepermeation, engagement strength and degradability of the obtained cap ofa container were measured or evaluated according to the methodsdescribed above, and overall evaluation was made. The results obtainedare shown in Table 6.

Comparative Example 4

A cap of a container used for a photographic sensitive material wasproduced in the same manner as in Example 5 except that a low-densitypolyethylene (UBE POLYETHYLENE Z470, manufactured by Ube Industries,Ltd.) was used as the molding material. The water absorption andflexural modulus of the molding material and the moisture permeation,engagement strength and degradability of the obtained cap of a containerwere measured or evaluated according to the methods described above, andoverall evaluation was made. The results obtained are shown in Table 6.

Comparative Example 5

A cap of a container used for a photographic sensitive material wasproduced in the same manner as in Example 5 except that a resinconsisting of a mixture of 80% by weight of an amide based elastomer(PAPEX 5512MN01) manufactured by Toray Industries, Inc. and 20% byweight of DEGRA NOVON (1X1025), manufactured by Novon Japan Co., Ltd.was used as the molding material. The water absorption and flexuralmodulus of the molding material and the moisture permeation, engagementstrength and degradability of the obtained cap of a container weremeasured or evaluated according to the methods described above, andoverall evaluation was made. The results obtained are shown in Table 6.

Comparative Example 6

A cap of a container used for a photographic sensitive material wasproduced in the same manner as in Example 5 except that a resinconsisting of a mixture of 80% by weight of linear low densitypolyethylene (JMA01N) manufactured by Nippon Polyolefin Co., Ltd. and20% by weight of DEGRA NOVON (1X1025), manufactured by Novon Japan Co.,Ltd. was used as the molding material. The water absorption and flexuralmodulus of the molding material and the moisture permeation, engagementstrength and degradability of the obtained cap of a container weremeasured or evaluated according to the methods described above, andoverall evaluation was made. The results obtained are shown in Table 6.

TABLE 5 Cylinder Mold Temperature Temperature (° C.) (° C.) Example 5240 50 Example 6 200 40 Example 7 180 40 Example 8 180 40 Example 9 22040 Comparative Example 4 180 40 Comparative Example 5 230 40 ComparativeExample 6 170 30

TABLE 6 Water Flexural Moisture Engagement Absorption ModulusPermeability Strength Bio- Overall (%) (kgf/cm²) (mg/day) (kg)degradability Evaluation Example 5 5.08 12900 4.6 3.7 ∘ Δ Example 6 0.585700 2.2 2.3 ∘ ∘ Example 7 0.06 3920 3.1 1.6 ∘ ∘ Example 8 0.06 1200 4.30.6 ∘ ∘ Example 9 5.90 5990 4.8 2.4 ∘ ∘ Comparative 0.01 3980 2.1 2.0 xx Example 4 Coinparative 6.21 2200 7.6 1.3 x x Example 5 Comparative0.01 900 4.7 0.4 ∘ Δ Example 6

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The member used for a photographic sensitive material of the presentinvention does not give adverse effects on the photographic sensitivematerial, exhibits necessary performance equivalent to or superior tothe conventional member. It does not hurt an incinerator uponincineration for scrapping it, and in the nature, it is decomposed orreduced in strength by microbes, light or heat and hence it is free ofthe danger of causing environmental problems.

Further, a container of a photographic sensitive material, particularlya cap of a container used for a photographic sensitive material, that isthe member used for a photographic sensitive material according to thepresent invention has features of not hurting an incinerator uponincineration for scrapping it, and of being free of the danger ofcausing environmental problems because in the nature, it is decomposedor reduced in strength by microbes, light or heat. At the same time, itgives no adverse effects on the photographic properties in respect ofengagement strength and moisture-proof property so that it can exhibitnecessary performance equivalent to or superior to the conventional capof a container.

What is claimed is:
 1. A member used for a photographic sensitivematerial, wherein the member is molded from a degradable polymer havinga water absorption of 6% or less and a flexural modulus of 9,500 to42,000 kgf/cm².
 2. A member used for a photographic sensitive materialaccording to claim 1, wherein said degradable polymer comprises apolymer which can be decomposed by microbes, light, heat or mixturethereof.
 3. A member used for a photographic sensitive materialaccording to claim 1, wherein said degradable polymer contains astimulant for microbial degradation.
 4. A member used for a photographicsensitive material according to claim 1, wherein said degradable polymerhas a water absorption of 1% or less.
 5. A member used for aphotographic sensitive material according to claim 1, wherein saiddegradable polymer has a notched Izod impact strength at 23° C. of 0.8kg cm/cm or more.
 6. A member used for a photographic sensitive materialaccording to claim 1, wherein said degradable polymer has a Vicatsoftening point of 50° C. or more.